Maine Potato Candy
Maine Potato Candy offers a unique blend of sweet coconut and smooth mashed potatoes, coated in rich dark candy coating. Its chewy texture and delightful flavors make it a nostalgic treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a comforting snack with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine confectioners sugar, flaked coconut, cold mashed potatoes, vanilla, and salt. Mix well.
- Line a 9-inch square pan with foil and butter the foil.
- Spread the coconut mixture into the prepared pan.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Cut into 2 x 1-inch rectangles.
- Cover and freeze the bars.
- Melt the dark candy coating and dip the bars into the coating.
- Place the coated bars on waxed paper to set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your mashed potatoes are completely cold and lump-free before mixing. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, substitute the dark candy coating with a vegan chocolate melt. You can also add a bit of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor or incorporate chopped nuts for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet bars make excellent gifts or party treats, perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve them alongside a refreshing Peach Dessert or Cinnamon Applesauce Salad for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Maine Potato Candy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars in a single layer, using parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maine Potato Candy contains roughly 1965 calories, with 22g protein, 241g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can use sweetened coconut, but it will make the candy sweeter. Adjust the amount of confectioners sugar accordingly to balance the sweetness.
What can I use instead of dark candy coating?
You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste and sweetness will change, so choose according to your preference.
How do I know when the candy coating has set?
The coating will harden and lose its glossy appearance when fully set. It typically takes about 30 minutes at room temperature or you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).